Identifying Cognitive Neuroscience Components Related to Prob-lem-Solving in Individuals with Different Cultural Backgrounds

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to identify the cognitive neuroscience components related to problem-solving in individuals with different cultural backgrounds.

Methods and Materials: This study followed a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews. The sample consisted of 22 participants from Tehran, with diverse cultural backgrounds. Data were collected through individual interviews and analyzed using Nvivo software. The data analysis followed a thematic analysis approach and continued until theoretical saturation was achieved.

Findings: The results revealed that cognitive components such as problem-solving strategies, creative thinking, problem analysis, and learning from past experiences directly impacted the quality of problem-solving. Additionally, information processing and decision-making were identified as key cognitive neuroscience components. Cultural differences also played a significant role in the selection of strategies and information processing. Participants from collectivist cultural backgrounds tended to prefer group-based methods, while individuals from individualist backgrounds favored independent strategies.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that both cognitive neuroscience components and cultural differences simultaneously influence the problem-solving process. Understanding these components can enhance problem-solving methods at both individual and group levels and can be valuable in the design of educational and multicultural counseling programs.